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Screening the Devil’s Calls

There is nothing new under the sun and that includes the devil’s tactics.

You just received a scam call. At least you think it was a scam call. The thing is, they knew things. Maybe this one was legit. Could you possibly have a warrant out for your arrest? You did get behind in a few bills last year. What if someone has opened a bunch of accounts in your name and they’re all delinquent? Your head swims as you stand there with phone still in hand.

Most of us go to the computer and begin a search. Some may call the police. Others phone a friend. Wherever you search, there is no relief until you hear, “That’s a scam. I’ve heard about that one before. Did they say…..?”. It’s then you realize, you have been terrorized and almost intimidated into giving them what never belonged to them.

I’ve discovered the devil works and says the same threats over and over. The Bible tells us that there is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9) and that goes for the tactics of the devil too. His lies are common to mankind and if we learn to recognize them, we are far less likely to be terrorized by his tactics. So follows the story of Hezekiah.

Hezekiah was a good great king of Judah. He tore down idols, smashed the sacred pillars and even restored the temple. The Bible says that Hezekiah trusted the Lord and the Lord made him successful in everything he did. (2 Kings 18: 5-7). That’s a common theme in Kings: Obey God = Succeed, build, crush enemies, long life then burial in the garden of the kings. Disobey God = short reigns, murdered by staff or family, die and be buried in some remote cave.

Life is not all butterflies and lollipops.

Yep, I would love to say that was the end of the story. Hezekiah was good. God made him great. And we all live happily ever after. Amen. Unfortunately, life is not like that. We dwell with evil and it has no desire to be a good neighbor. The devil, our adversary, walks about looking for someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)

Let’s see if the words of Hezekiah’s enemy sound like something you’ve heard before. First a little more back story. The nation of Israel was divided into two kingdoms. Ten tribes made up the Kingdom of Israel. The tribes of Judah and Benjamin made up the Kingdom of Judah. Hezekiah was the King of Judah. Both kingdoms had a common enemy in Assyria.

In King Hezekiah’s fourth year, Assyria laid siege on the Kingdom of Israel, his kingdom’s sister nation. Three years later Assyria conquered Israel and Hezekiah witnessed the northern tribes being taken captive and exiled to Assyrian territory. Once Israel was emptied, the Assyrians moved in foreign occupiers.

Eight years later, Assyria was knocking on Hezekiah’s door. Assyria’s king was demanding tribute. That’s not kind words. He was demanding gold. Hezekiah had witnessed Israel walking into captivity. He had watched occupiers live in “the Land” for eight years. The threats were serious.

Hezekiah gives in when Judah’s northern towns began to fall. “I will pay whatever you want”. And then he gives him enough to impress Bill Gates. But gold and silver never buys off a bully and Assyria continues to march through the land. They send a letter to Hezekiah just in case he should get the crazy idea that Judah could fight these ruthless conquerors.

And here is where the words sounded so familiar to me.

“What are you trusting in that makes you so confident?”

This is his introduction and then he begins to tear down any arguments for their confidence. All the words can be found in 2 Kings 18. I encourage you to read it for yourself.

“Do you think that mere words can substitute for military skill and strength?”

This is the devil saying, let’s deal with reality not your scriptures and promises. You can’t win by standing on ancient writings. Just look at this canon barrel aimed at your soul. What is a few words going to do for you? I’ve got weapons of total destruction. You are carrying what? A word from God? Ha.

“Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me? On Egypt? If you lean on Egypt, it will be like a reed that splinters beneath your weight and pierces your hand. Pharaoh, the King of Egypt, is completely unreliable!”

Have you ever heard this in your ear? You can’t turn to your friends on this one. Don’t ask for prayer this time. They won’t pray for you. They’re going to think you are weak and vulnerable. I know you want to talk to someone or seek some counsel; but you can’t trust anyone. Keep this to yourself. You don’t want anyone to know that you have issues. Besides, what can they do for you? They weren’t there for you last time.

“But perhaps you will say to me, ‘We are trusting in the Lord our God!’ ….Didn’t Hezekiah tear down his shrines and altars and make everyone in Judah and Jerusalem worship only at the altar here in Jerusalem?”

Interpretation: You have picked a battle with the devil and you are in over your head. This is spiritual warfare like you have never seen. You made a stand for God and woke up the haters. Worse yet, you have upset some of the religious. My advice is you better backdown and backout slow and quiet before you get beat like the sons of Sceva. You are asking for it!

“I’ll tell you what! Strike a bargain with my master, the king of Assyria. I will give you 2000 horses if you can find that many men to ride on them! With your tiny army, how can you think of challenging even the weakest contingent of my master’s troops…”

Just give up and we’ll even give you some help. Of course, it won’t be enough to defeat us, but at least you can die with dignity. Finances upside down? Take a loan and start making payments instead of tithing. Sick? We can allow treatments, but healing is out of the question. You are riding our horses, remember? This deal will get you out of Assyria’s crosshairs but satan is buying you off with weapons he controls.

“What’s more, do you think we have invaded your land without the Lord’s direction? The LORD himself told us, “Attack this land and destroy it.”

I believe this is one of satan’s favorites. Don’t expect deliverance or help from God because this is His will for your life. Every time we pray for God to perform a miracle in our life, satan reminds us of some saint that lived under similar circumstances and never received the same miracle. While praying for our eyes, he will remind us of Fanny Crosby, who was blind and wrote some of the greatest hymns of all time. Don’t pray for a better job. Poverty is God’s way of keeping you humble. When we pray for our kids’ relationships, the devil will whisper that God wants him to have some world exposure so that he will be stronger spiritually. Praying for your marriage and the devil declares the trouble is God’s will as a punishment for past sins. This attack was sent by God and it’s His will for your life. Lies. Lies. Lies. Watch out for this one.

Hezekiah’s men asked the Assyrian spokesperson to speak in Aramaic and not Hebrew so that the people of the Kingdom of Judah wouldn’t hear the threats. The enemy responds:

“Do you think my master sent this message only to you and your master? He wants all the people to hear it, for when we put his city under siege they will suffer along with you.”

This one appeals to our compassion. Don’t take this stand against the enemy. Your whole family will suffer. Nobody wants to suffer. Fewer people are willing to watch their family or friends suffer because of them. Likewise, the peer pressure becomes intense. If you want to fight and die, whatever. But don’t drag us into your martyrdom. Nobody is behind you. Give in or you will lose your family.

“Don’t listen to Hezekiah! These are the terms the king of Assyria is offering; Make peace with me – open the gates and come out. Then each of you can continue eating from your own grapevine and fig tree and drinking from your own well. Then I will arrange to take you to another land like this one – a land of grain and new wine, bread and vineyards, olive groves and honey.”

Let’s make a deal. Just come out, open the gates, and let’s have peace. I promise you will have your own grapevine and fig tree, just like now. You will have your own well. Come out and let me take you to this new land. You’re going to love it. That’s losing a battle without firing a shot. The devil is so conniving. Just join up with me and life continues, even better. Yes, you will be my captive and your land becomes mine, but hey, you get your own fig tree. Captivity sounds so captivating, doesn’t it?

And finally,

“Don’t listen to Hezekiah when he tries to mislead you by saying, “The LORD will rescue us!’ Have the gods of any other nations ever saved their people from the king of Assyria? What happened to the gods of Hamath and Arpad? And what about the gods of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivvah? Did any god rescue Samaria from my power? What god of any nation has even been able to save its people from my power? So what makes you think that the Lord can rescue Jerusalem from me?”

As a last shock, Sennacherib, Assyria’s spokesperson, insults God. Satan will do the same. The lie is simple. God can’t do this. No other little “g” god has done anything. The god of money hasn’t saved your marriage. The god of medicine didn’t cure your disease. You were so faithful to the god of education and yet your children languish. You even tried the god of religion, but you were left dry and empty. So what makes you think the LORD will rescue you? He is not different than the others. I will defeat him too.

Any of this ring a bell? You may have heard one of these lies even today. It’s a scam. It’s scary and threatening. There is just enough truth to make you question our big “G” God. Have no fear, He is in control. He still rescues the perishing. Hang on to these “mere words”. They are stronger than any army of our enemy.

The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me.

I will protect those who trust in my name.

When they call on me, I will answer;

I will be with them in trouble.

I will rescue and honor them.

I will reward them with a long life

and give them my salvation.”

Psalm 91:14-16

That’s it. “I will. I will. I will”, God says. His unfailing love, well, it’s unfailing. He says in that same chapter (Psalm 91:8), “Just open your eyes, and see how the wicked are punished.” While we cry for the Lord to see our circumstance, He is saying “open your eyes” and see what I am doing. Don’t succumb to the threats. Recognize the lies. God will rescue you!

Stay tuned next week, when Hezekiah “sees” God handle business with the enemy! In the meantime, don’t answer the robocalls of the devil.

Sheep in a Storm

When the Israelites were escaping Egypt and heading through the Red Sea, it may not have looked like deliverance. Your deliverance may not look like it either.

I remember watching “The Ten Commandments” as a child and being mesmerized as I saw the Red Sea part and the children of Israel making their escape from Egypt. I was even more amazed when I read that they created that scene with some sort of gelatin and some creative filmwork. The sights and sounds are still with me.

The Exodus account doesn’t give us a lot of details. There was a strong east wind that blew all night. God told Moses to raise his hand over the sea and when he did, the water parted and the land was dry. The Israelites walked through. The Egyptians followed. God brought chaos and chariot troubles on them before the walls of water fell and drowned the entire Egyptian army.

I know that it was a miraculous event that I have shortened to a length not suitable for its greatness. Read it, in all its glory, in Exodus 14. It is truly an event made for movies. God is just….well, God. But for now, I want to get to another account.

Psalm 77 recounts the story with the weather conditions included. Let’s pick up with verse 16:

When the Red Sea saw you, O God,

its waters looked and trembled!

The sea quaked to its very depths.

The clouds poured down rain;

the thunder rumbled in the sky.

Your arrows of lightning flashed.

Your thunder roared from the whirlwind;

the lightning lit up the world!

The earth trembled and shook.

Psalm 77:16-18

Do you see that? The sea quaked. We call that a tsunami today. Rain came pouring down. There was thunder coming from a whirlwind and lightning that lit up the world. The earth trembled and shook! Tsunamis and tornadoes and earthquakes! Oh my!

Does this look like deliverance to you? It’s hard enough to face the suicide situation of the Red Sea in front of you and the fierce Egyptian army behind you. Nevermind that this army has endured 10 plagues including the tragic death of every firstborn. Their desire to take revenge on the Hebrews burned within every soldier. It was certain death for the Hebrews. Their only way of escape is through a deep sea.

In the middle of this seemingly hopeless situation, the earth seems to have convulsions. This probably didn’t feel like deliverance either. An enemy army coming after their slaves is one thing. We expect men to be violent in battle. But the wind and the storms and the rain are all in the hands of God. Why was this happening?

Isn’t that a picture of life sometimes? You’re in deep with a situation that doesn’t appear to have a good option. We call it between a rock and a hard place. You know God is the only One who can unscramble this trial and carry you through it unscathed. And as you begin to seek His deliverance, it only gets worse. Or it seems that way.

This brings to mind those who battle addictions. Slavery is behind you, with all your slavemasters chasing you with chains in hand. You are running for your life. It would be so much easier to just stop and let them capture you again. Instead you run as far and as hard as you can. You have given it all your flesh can muster. Now you stand on the shore and look into the waters of impossible. There is no way that you can stop this madness.

The Red Sea represents freedom and it’s terrifying. Without your addiction you fear that you will drown. As you are contemplating the difficulties, the “weather” turns upside down. Maybe your “weather” is a storm of sickness or a bill tsunami or any other stresses that make you want to give up. Where is God in all of this? Why is this happening all at once?

Keep reading this chapter. There is a path.

Your road led through the sea,

your pathway through the mighty waters –

a pathway no one knew was there!

You led your people along that road like a flock of sheep,

with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds.

Psalm 78: 19, 20

IT’S THERE! His road is there! It goes right through the impossible. You may not see it yet. No one even knew it was there. He saved it for such a time as this. That wind you feel and the shaky waves you are watching are making a way for you on dry land. The thunder and lightning serve to scare your enemies. Don’t you turn back to your captors! God is going to hurl them into the sea.

It may not “feel” right. Why would it? It’s sheep walking on the bottom of the sea. It’s not going to feel safe right away. Maybe nobody in your family has been this way before. Notice He doesn’t change you into a fish so that you may “go with the flow” surrounding you. He leaves you a sheep. You are going to have to block out the roar of the waters and the threats of your old masters.

Instead, He has given us shepherds. There are people who will pray for you and have their own story of escape and freedom. Get in church and follow the voice of the Lord. He is the Good Shepherd. After He has rescued you from other masters, He will lead you Himself. The Holy Spirit will comfort you. This will become your song in the Promise Land.

“The LORD is my Shepherd.

I lack nothing.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

He leads me beside still waters,

He refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil, for you are with me.

Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Psalm 23: 1-4

The Israelites made it and so will you. Your story will be told for generations. Or it should be! Dare to step foot toward the impossible. Watch God dry up the sea and then swallow your captors in waves. Follow your Shepherd all the way. He’s bringing you to the land of milk and honey!

See you on the other side!

The Battle Rages

The Valley of Megiddo, where the final battle will take place.

My pastor preached a sermon about the war in which we are entangled daily. His bottom line was we would either appease or fight. There is no middle ground in war. Those who “go along” with the world to “get along” with the world will eventually lose their souls. It’s really so cut and dry. I wish it wasn’t. How my flesh wants a foot on both sides of the fence, but you never get anywhere straddling the rails and honestly the comfort level is unendurable. We have to choose sides and then we have to suit up for battle.

The intensity of the war does ebb and flow. Some days and seasons the attacks are relentless. It seems the devil will never lose your address. Then there are short times when the Lord lifts us up above the battle and gives His soldiers rest.

As I read through 2 Samuel this week, I was reminded what a warrior David was. His battles included real blood shed, daggers, and arrows. Therefore, his Psalms intertwined worship with war. All of his songs weren’t tunes to help the sheep relax. Some were war cries.

Have you ever worshipped in the middle of the battle? Nothing shakes the hordes of hell more than some genuine worship in the heat of the attack. I find that often, I just need to stop and declare that God is Sovereign. He is not shaken by my trial. I have to stop fretting the battle lines and just praise Him.

Sometimes, it rhymes…

View from the Mount of Olives, the site of many battles.
The Battle Rages

The battle rages deftly.
Blows sting from either side.
At times I'm knocked to my knees,
From there, my battle cry.

"God, help me stand in battle.
God, help me never fall.
Hold my shield up for me,
Because I'm giving it my all."

The strikes are not quick glances.
The sharp pains leave lasting wounds.
I need courage to go back to battle;
While my mind rehearses the ruins.

Some battles last for decades.
It's hard to even keep score.
Just when you think it's over;
The enemy comes back for more.

But, I know You are my Commander.
You'll not leave a man on the field.
The battle buffets your army;
But to our enemy, You will not yield.

Why should you?  You're the Victor!
The war has been soundly won!
The losers:  satan and his leagues
The Victors:  God, Holy Spirit, and Son.

The weapons you have given us,
While Jesus declared our victory,
Are mighty for pulling down strongholds
Of fear, discouragement and disease.

The promise is for the overcomer;
Who I am, through Jesus' power.
I fight the devil daily.
His defeat promised in one hour.
All the hordes and their defeated leader,
The lake of fire will devour.

Triumphantly, I fight a defeated foe.
His anthem hate, my King is love.
And though the battle rages,
My Victor reigns from His throne above.

So carry on, my fellow soldier.
Endure hardship for our King.
When the arrows are denting your shield of faith,
Just lift up your hands and sing!

       ~Suellyn

“You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

2 Timothy 2:3

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

I know there are some worshipping soldiers out there. I believe God so enjoys our honest praise. Feel free to add a line or two to the psalm in the comment section. Hey, write 8 or 10 lines, if the words begin to flow. A warrior’s cry is always inspiring!

He Held Me So Tightly

A dream about my father revealed the insecurities I had and the great love of God.

Two nights ago, I had a dream. I know you just read the title of this blog and now the first line, and maybe you’re afraid to keep reading. But, have no fear, the dream is rated G.

Before I delve into the dream, allow me to give you a very short explanation of me and my dad. He left my mom when I was three. Prior to that he was not home much, pursuing college, career, and evidently a few women. I say that without any malice in my heart. He wasn’t a Christian and as a friend of mine says, “Sinners sin.”

I saw my dad three more times before I saw him lying peacefully in his casket. I will not make you relive those brief memories. Just suffice it to say, I did not know my daddy. As a young girl, I remember thinking of him in some sort of fairy tale way, hoping one day he would come riding home on a white horse and would be better than any of the dads I had ever known. As I grew older, the fairy tale gave way to reality. I thought less and less of him, meaning he just didn’t cross my mind much. To explain, you don’t miss what you never had. Though he was never part of my life, I still loved him. That’s possible. You can love deeply those you never knew.

So, when I dreamed about him this week, I was so surprised. I have never dreamed of him in my life, ever. I’m over 50 years old and he passed away over 30 years ago. The dream felt different than most and I knew when I woke up that God was showing me something.

This isn’t my dad or me. It just “felt” like my dream – minus the random arm.

Here’s the dream:

I was standing in a park that bordered a large lake. There were a few piers going out into the lake. On one of them, I saw my dad with about 4 or 5 children surrounding him. He was smiling and showing them things in nature, I presumed. He was pointing to the woods, the sky, and water. The children were interested and he was enjoying himself.

I stood on the shore, a good distance away, and longed for him. The excitement and trepidation in my heart were palpable. The feelings were a mixed bag, but overwhelmingly giddy. Every cell in my body, except the ones without courage, wanted to run to him and be loved. The scared cells unfortunately controlled my legs and I stood there, paralyzed.

My thrill woke me from this dream. As I laid there I thought how wonderful it was to dream of him. I fell back to sleep hoping to continue this great reunion and amazingly, I did.

This time as I stood staring at my dad, I was aware that this was a dream. And because I was dreaming, my mind was perplexed because it didn’t know how to “produce” dad in a way that was true, because my mind had no point of reference. As I stood on the shore, I couldn’t make my dream progress, because I didn’t know if my dad would recognize me or remember me. I mean, the age of three was many moons ago. I’ve changed a lot.

Furthermore, I didn’t know what dad would say, when he did see and recognize me. I didn’t know his personality, so his response to me was a mystery. I didn’t even know the sound of his voice, so I couldn’t produce that either, even if I knew what he might say. It was so frustrating and my cowardice was growing. I knew he would welcome me, but I just didn’t know how.

So, like dreams can do and mornings can’t explain, I skipped all the introductions and the next scene was me being held with my face buried into his chest and feeling all the weight of my world melting away. All I remember was thinking that this is what I had needed all my life. The feeling that I was safer than I had ever been. I was being wrapped in an unearned love that would never find me wanting again. It was heavenly.

I woke up the next morning and could only long for more and wonder what all that was about. I drank my morning java and asked the Lord.

The Dream’s Meaning

Here is what I believe the Lord was showing me in a nutshell. There are always hidden gems when God is showing us things, so I pray you find some too.

I believe my dad represented God, the Father, to me. As I stood watching him interact with others, more innocent and fun than me, my longing was so intensified. I saw his true love and joy. He was immersed in the moment. I wanted to be in the center of all that.

My fears revealed

My fear was that He wouldn’t know me. Now, I am a Christian and have been a child of His for a long time. But, honestly, I have to say that I stood on the shore and thought, how humiliating it would be to have to introduce myself. I never feared that He would reject me or deny that I was his child. But I couldn’t bear the feeling of needing someone to tell my own Father, who I was.

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, or lack compassion for the son of her womb? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!

Isaiah 49:15

Fear comes from satan. Even in this dream, he spoke that “God” probably wouldn’t know me. “Don’t approach Him. He will humiliate you. You aren’t worthy.”

Now, the lies never spoke that I wasn’t his child. I knew I was. The lies said He wouldn’t have time for me. The whole interaction would be awkward because I wouldn’t even be on His radar; just an interruption to a delightful day.

Again, I did not think that my Father would send me away, but I was so scared that He would have to hear a bunch of evidence to convince him that his youngest daughter stood in front of him. This speaks of my fear that I might not be considered special to God. In all the multitudes that have and do serve Him, why would Suellyn mean anything to Him? Have you ever been introduced to someone noteworthy, and they don’t seem to make any connection to you until a friend mentions a relative or friend of yours? “This is Johnny Nelson’s daughter.” Then the smiles and handshakes begin. You’re in. This was what I felt I needed. Somebody needed to speak up for me.

Of course, I didn’t know exactly what He would say, because God can not be predicted. We know He loves, but what great words would he speak to me? I couldn’t even imagine.

His voice? Well, that is a mystery as well. Ezekiel described it as “many waters” (Ezekial 43:2). John said it was “thunder” (Revelation 19:6). Elijah heard the whole gamut and declared it was a “still, small voice” (1 Kings 19:12). In my dream, I didn’t try the options. He just never spoke.

I also never saw his face. Even from the shore, I could only see the side of his face. I knew there was a smile, but I never looked into his eyes. This is another reason I believe he represented God. I completely adored this being that was unseen, unheard, and never spoke.

The last picture is me, with my whole being clinging to Him. He held me so tightly that I never felt the rush to let go or get myself together and be presentable. I belonged to Him and He was as happy as I was to be there in that moment. There was no else on that lake. There was no where else He needed to be. There was no line behind me waiting for their turn in His arms. I relaxed in a way impossible in this world. There were no words, because none were needed. I was held. Held until all was well.

I share this pretty personal dream because it has blessed me. Maybe you are like me. You might not even realize it. I didn’t. Stop for a moment and imagine this meeting. What is God saying to you? When we enter heaven, we all imagine that we will grovel at the throne and offer all our crowns back to Him. No doubt about that. But think about this: Imagine meeting God at the park. Is your heart beating wildly? Honestly, all my imaginations never went like my dream.

My encouragement to you

If you are a child of God, a follower of Christ, let this wash over you. He knows your name. He recognizes your face. No one will have to remind him of who you are or convince Him that you are “worth” time spent. His words will not chastise you or speak words of regret over your life. He knows you. And He delights in you stronger than you delight in Him.

“…Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; You are mine.”

Isaiah 43:1

What are you carrying? What makes you feel lacking? Is there something that makes you feel unworthy or unknown? Do you look at others and inferiority lies keep you from stretching out your soul to a loving Father? I had no idea, that these feelings would keep me on the shore instead of running into the arms of my Daddy. If you had asked me, I would have never confessed these unknown insecurities, but He knew.

“Behold, what manner of love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God.”

1 John 3:1

He loves you. He loves me. Drop the baggage. Pull down the mask. You don’t need the perfect words or anyone to make your case. He knows you. Take off running for the embrace. He will hold you so tight, you’ll feel like you’re dreaming.

Honor God, Raise Kids

My son and I on the banks of the Nile River. This was one of the harder “teenage” years that was so wonderfully interrupted by a missions trip to Uganda. God is so good.

We can make idols out of the strangest things. People idolize singers, athletes, old redwood trees, luxury cars,… and their children. Anything we hold above the Lord has the potential of becoming an idol. Sometimes that is our kids. Let me give you an example.

Eli was high priest during the time that Samuel was born. As a matter of fact, Eli was the priest that raised Samuel, after his parents brought him to the temple to be given to the Lord. Eli also had two sons of his own. The Bible tells us that these two were wicked and had no regard for the Lord. (1 Samuel 2:12). Their names were Hophni and Phinehas.

The Sins of Contempt

Two particular sins of Hophni and Phinehas were mentioned. First, custom allowed for the ministering priest to plunge a 3 prong fork into a boiling sacrifice and any meat that came out with the fork would be the priests cut. The fat would have already been burned and the meat tender at this point.

Greedy Hophni and Phinehas would, instead, force the person bringing the sacrifice to allow them a cut of the raw meat so they could roast it. They didn’t want the boiled meat. If anyone objected, they would force them to comply. The Bible spells it out clearly.

“This sin of the young men was very great in the Lord’s sight, for they were treating the Lord’s offering with contempt.”

1 Samuel 2:17

The second sin is mentioned when their own father confronts them for their wicked behavior. In that same chapter, Eli tells his sons he knows what they have “been doing to all of Israel” and how they had been sleeping with the women who served in the tent of meeting.

Besides the sexual sins, that God is more than clear about throughout scripture, the wickedness involved treating the sacred with contempt. Holy things (whether women or meat) were not held as holy, but used to satisfy their desires. They used their ministry, or standing, to benefit themselves. They told themselves that their titles, sons of Eli, “servants” of God, would cover their sins. The Bible says that they had no regard for the Lord.

When Warnings Aren’t Enough

Eli confronted them. He was ashamed that their actions had been told all over Israel. He even warns them that if a person sins against another man, God may mediate for them. But when you sin against God, who will intercede for them? Warnings. Warnings. Warnings.

“If I were you, I wouldn’t do that.”

“What are people going to say?”

“I know what you’re up to.”

But no action. Phinehas and Hophni kept their position. The sins continued. It’s just a little extra meat. The Ark of the Covenant was still in the neighborhood. God was still answering prayers. Life goes on.

Honoring God vs. Happy Kids

Then God sends an unknown prophet to Eli. The Lord’s message reminds Eli that God chose his father out of all the tribes of Israel to come before him and do the duties of the priest. Then God asks a couple of questions:

Why do you scorn my sacrifice and offering that I prescribed for my dwelling? Why do you honor your sons more than me…?

1 Samuel 2:29

Wait. Hold on. Eli wasn’t asking for the extra meat. How did Eli honor his sons above God? Reread. Think about that. This is God’s point of view and it is exactly right…of course.

To honor God means you regard His rules and laws and truths above all others. Family devotionals are not son Johnny’s desire or may not fit in Susie’s tight schedule, oh well. To borrow from Nike, “Just Do It”. We must train our children to hold God and His commandments in high regard, or else they learn to treat the holy things with contempt and God will ask us “Why?”.

Eli failed to correct his sons. They were now grown and more than likely had grown up treating the things of God with contempt. Looking back we would say, Eli should have not spared the rod the first time he saw them greedy in the sacrificial pot. He should have made them repent and apologize the first time they tried to beat down the givers. Maybe it started with them not cleaning the utensils correctly, skipping a few required blessings and offerings, or making light of other ways of God.

As a parent, I can imagine the thought process of Eli. “They are really good boys and boys will be boys. I mean, what guy doesn’t enjoy some roasted beef and a beautiful woman? My wife indulged them too much. At least they work ‘for the Lord’. I will talk to them next time. They’re still young men. They will mature.”

The Results were Not Pleasant

The unnamed prophet went on to tell Eli that his family would never have a man live to old age, starting with his two sons that would die on the same day. Those who lived would have trouble and would beg for a priestly position so that they might have a crust of bread. You can read two chapters later (ch. 4), that these prophecies come true, along with the deaths of Eli and Phinehas’ wife. The details are worth reading.

This compromise in the holy things called down God’s wrath. It was not just a piece of meat to Him. And when Eli allowed his sons to continue in a way not pleasing to God, he was honoring them above God. Let me say, that when we choose to please our children, even grown children, over the Lord we are asking for God’s correction.

Their feet may be larger than yours, but their path still needs your direction.

Let me get a little more current. I’ve seen kids that aren’t made to come to church because “it should be their choice”. Why? It’s not my choice, is it? I am a Christian and the Lord said not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together. He didn’t ask me if I wanted to attend. What kid WANTS to sit on a pew/chair for an hour and listen to adults sing and speak? Yet, there, God speaks to our children, shows his holiness, and ministers through His Spirit. Most of the occasions when I don’t want to go to church, is the very service that God speaks so directly to me.

Some parents don’t want to tell their children that there is right and wrong. The world will not draw the lines and they have a hard time doing it as well. Some parents feel hypocritical because they didn’t live for Christ at their children’s age and so they don’t feel right demanding righteous living from their offspring. Don’t prefer your children’s love over the Lord. Hold up a standard to them and they will respect you for that. These rules are not yours, but God’s.

I’m sure that Hophni and Phinehas had friends that enjoyed the whole roasted lamb with their families. I’m sure the question came as to why they had to be satisfied with a 3 prong fork full of boiled meat. Sorry, Charlie. It’s God’s rules and we live by them. We trust that God has the best plan for us and a 3 prong fork is it. If you can’t live by these rules I will punish you, so that God won’t have to. God comes first.

When we compromise on holy things and allow our children to move the boundary lines, they lose their fear of Him. Remember, the Bible said they had no regard for God. I can’t imagine anything sadder to hear about our children. “Oh yea, my mom and dad are cool. They get me. I’m not into their big guy in the sky business, but they are cool.” No regard for God.

Won’t there be a fight? Yes.

Teach your children to fear the Lord. This doesn’t mean that you will grab them around the neck every Sunday and force them into a pew. It means you fear the Lord. You put God first in your life. Regard Him in your decisions, entertainment, and commitments. When His ways run counter to the wishes or desires of your children, God still comes first. That is training for the rest of their lives. When they learn to submit to God, submission to the other authorities in life will be much easier.

Love never fails.

Let me insert a word here that belongs in all conversations of God and raising kids. LOVE. You will never please God or raise children without it. That’s a word for another blog, but I had to say what goes without saying.

How it’s done.

One last verse to encourage. If you will follow this, the battle will be easier as they grow. They will know why you are making these rules. They may not agree, but they will know WHOM you are putting first in the family.

“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.  Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

Deuteronomy 6:6,7
Zach didn’t play dolls, but his action figures were often Samson, Joshua, or even Goliath.

That’s the secret. The commandments should be points of conversation along life’s trails. Teachable moments can be filled with the Word of God. As your children misbehave in church or begin to push against God, talk about Him and His great love for them. Tell them a Bible story. Share a testimony of God’s goodness or judgment. Your God will be their’s.

Eli didn’t intervene in their wickedness. They grew up, got married, had children and died without regard for God. Even when he was warned of their pending death, Eli didn’t lead his family in repentance. It was too hard. Even later, young Samuel received from the Lord a message of warning, again, for Eli. His answer: “He is the Lord; let Him do what is good in his eyes.” (1 Samuel 3:18). He still refused to honor God above his kids.

He and his two boys died, all in one day. They grew up around God, all their lives, and died without knowing Him. I hate to end with a downer, but that is the story. Raising children is the hardest thing I have ever attempted. It takes tremendous wisdom and strength. And in my experience, loads and loads of forgiveness. You will have to make decisions beyond what you feel capable. You will have to draw lines where there is no chapter and verse. But God gives us a wonderful insight in this passage. Always, always honor God above the sons and daughters He has given you.

They All Were the One

Have you ever felt a failure at soul winning? It seems like some people say the right thing, at the right time, to the right person and the harvest if plentiful. Of course, we are thrilled; but doesn’t the devil remind us that it’s been a loooong time since we could tell that story?

On the other hand, maybe you’re the street preaching, soul winner that has a hard time understanding why everyone isn’t out in the fields rescuing souls for God. You’re happy to be in the middle of what God is doing; but the devil always asks you where everyone else is while you are working so hard. You can’t fathom why some seem to sit on the sideline and let you do all the preaching.

Either way, I have a story for you…

Once Upon a Time

A miracle happened this morning. Mr. Cavender, a 45 year old, father of two, and successful medical equipment representative gave his heart to Jesus. He decided right there at Manna’s Table Restaurant, sitting across from Pastor Paul. It was a beautiful thing as great peace entered his heart and heaven sang.

You might say, “Wow, that Pastor Paul is amazing.” And right you would be. Pastor Paul is every bit wonderful.

But what about Brenda, who works the morning shift at Manna’s Table? She refills the coffee cups, takes the orders with quick wit and a ready smile. She never wipes a table without praying for the next guests who will sit there. She has her regulars and knows their troubles. Those she doesn’t know get an extra prayer and often a short encouragement in the Lord. “God bless y’all. Have a blessed day. God has given us a gorgeous day, hasn’t He?” Or whatever she thinks “works” in the conversation.

She has waited on Mr. Cavender for three years. Black coffee, 2 pieces of toast with grape jelly and a newspaper, if she can get it out of Coach Mike’s hands. He usually just wants the sports pages anyway. She prays for Mr. Cavender every weekday unless he is traveling. Even then, Brenda often remembers to ask the Lord to save Mr. Cavender. Brenda thinks of him as a friend.

You might say, “Man, that Brenda is something, isn’t she? She takes her waitressing job to a whole new level. She’s probably the reason Mr. Cavender is saved today.” Probably so. But let’s not forget Tom Rob.

Tom owns Manna’s Table Restaurant. He started there as a parking lot attendant while in high school. He worked all the way up to manager and when the original owner, Mrs. Donath, was wanting to retire and sell, Tom took all his savings, got a loan, and bought the place he loved so much. Tom has worked hard to keep it going.

Those nights when the repairs and supplies cost more than the pancakes he sold that day, he asks the Lord, why? He knows, without the Lord even answering. This is a place where families can come and enjoy a wholesome environment. He likes to play Christian music and offer reading materials that glorify His Lord and Savior. Lots of teenagers have worked for him and he takes every opportunity to tell them how much God loves them and gives them purpose. He loves to hear his employees sharing an encouraging word with patrons. THAT’S why he keeps paying the bills and sharing His Table with the community.

“Thank God for Tom!”, you say. Yes, indeed. Thank God for him. So, is he the reason for Mr. Cavender’s salvation? After all, he would have never met Brenda or Pastor Paul without Manna’s Table. Tom’s the hero, here. Yes, Tom and Dr. Sami.

Dr. Sami is a client of Mr. Cavender’s. Though most doctors and their staffs want all the free stuff they could get from Mr. Cavender, Dr. Sami is always giving. With the birth of each of his sons, Dr. Sami gave Mr. Cavender a huge care basket full of baby supplies. Remembering that Mr. Cavender loved the Houston Astros, each basket included a handmade baby blanket with the Astros logo right in the middle. Not just stuff, but Dr. Sami would find a way to share a scripture in every conversation. He didn’t preach or make Mr. Cavender feel uncomfortable, just always had the perfect word of wisdom for every situation. Mr. Cavender looked forward to sales calls to Dr. Sami more than any other. He was just nice.

Well, then, Dr. Sami gets the credit for Mr. Cavender’s salvation. Yes, he does. He showed Mr. Cavender what Jesus was really like, month after month. But let’s not forget Nana Jessie.

Nana Jessie wasn’t really his nana, nor was her real name Jessie. Her real name was Jessup Carleen Towler. She had lived next door to little Billy Cavender all his years of growing up. She was his sitter, when his mom was still at work. She came to most of his Little League games. As matter of fact, Nana Jessie was the one who taught him all about the Houston Astros. She would wear her Astros t-shirt and big orange baseball earrings and shout at the tv like a sports announcer. He loved her. He also knew there was one thing she loved more than baseball. She was crazy about Jesus. She was always praying for him and she let him know it. Despite his rolling eyes or “hmphs” when she would tell him she had prayed, Billy Cavender sometime hinted around for some of those prayers. “You gonna pray for me right, Nana Jessie? Haha.” As an adult, Mr. Cavender has considered those prayers some of the greatest gifts anyone has every offered.

Now that he is saved, Mr. Cavender knows that most of those prayers were for what happened this very morning at Manna’s Table. Nana wanted him to know Jesus like she did. Even in middle age, he knew that Nana Jessie loved Jesus more than anyone he had ever met. She definitely was responsible for clearing the way for Mr. Cavender to find Jesus.

Yes, Pastor Paul and Waitress Brenda and Owner Tom Rob and Dr. Sami and Nana Jessie are all “the one” who led Mr. Cavender to the Lord. Unbeknownst to them, they were operating as one body. One is the arm of strength, another the thoughtful mind, and still another the heart of compassion. And all of them salty, causing Mr. Cavender to be thirsty for something more in life.

“Thus the saying, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ is true”

John 4:37

Even an obstacle directs your path

Those are the cheerleaders along the way; but God also used the opposition to guide Mr. Cavender. Consider his boss, Mr. Mullin. Smart, on top of the corporate chain, beautiful home, lovely wife, and cranky and miserable as a man has ever been. His mind is constantly on how to squeeze more money from another deal. His cheating and conniving have paid in cash, no doubt; but Mr. Cavender has often wondered if Mullin could ever be happy. There had to be more to life than another great deal.

Seeing himself striving for the same empty rewards that Boss Mullin had accomplished, Mr. Cavender had begun thinking about real purpose in life. He knew people with much less “success” and much more contentment. That’s what he really wanted.

Even his best friend, Kyle, was drinking more and more to have a good time and “relax a little” after work. It seemed “relax” had become passed out cold in his recliner. Kyle was a great guy, but drinking had stolen his gusto for life. Every hour of the day was just one more closer to that longed for drink. Bill loved his friend, but that wasn’t life. There had to be more.

So, maybe, Mullins and Kyle had pushed Bill Cavender toward Jesus. They may be responsible for his decision to become a Christian. Of course, there was the unmentioned VBS teacher that taught Billy and a group of rowdy third graders all about Jesus’ great love for them. Mr Cavender also shared a flight with a born again, bathroom fixture salesman who shared a little of his testimony between here and Philly. And we will never know those who planned the VBS, bought the supplies, mowed the grass, drove the bus, paid the bills and gave the offerings to provide ministry throughout his life. But God certainly does. And because of their faithful efforts, Mr. Cavender will enjoy eternity in Heaven.

You may have even been responsible for the salvation of Mr. Cavender and never knew it. That’s how God works. We live our lives, pray our prayers, give our gifts, and tell our stories, all the while the Holy Spirit is drawing men unto Him. We all work the garden, but God produces the fruit.

“So, neither is the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”

1 Corinthians 3:7

And He is a Master Gardener.

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Why Just Calm the Storm When I Could Walk on Water?

You just got to love Peter. You gotta love him. I’m not really the Peter type disciple. I’m not the boisterous, brash, cut off your ear if I need to, kind. But I do love and laugh at his realness and enthusiasm, and often wish I was a lot more Peter-ish. Case in point…

The beautiful Sea of Galilee on a calm evening.

Jesus and Peter Walk on the Water

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Matthew 14:22-32

Storms at Night

I LOVE THIS! Here’s the scene: A bunch of fisherman and other guys familiar with the Sea of Galilee, out a far distance in somebody’s boat, in the middle of the night. Can you imagine the darkness? When I was kid, my stepdad had a trotline on one of the inlets of Lake Houston. More than once, we went out at night to check the lines. (Those without fishing license prefer the darkness. Ahem.) When he would turn off the trolling motor and all we had for light was a flashlight, which he used sparingly, it was dark and oh so eerily quiet.

On the Sea of Galilee, the scene was the same until a storm suddenly blew. While I was in Israel, we took a boat ride, at night, into the Sea of Galilee. I don’t know where we went, because it was dark, but I know we ended up where we started. We had a wonderful time of worship and teaching, but I really just wanted to turn off the lights and music and imagine.

We were told that the Sea of Galilee is notorious for sudden storms. It has something to do with the mountains, blah, blah, blah. Sorry, I was probably imagining at the moment. He told us, on the tour he led prior to ours, they were hit by one of those storms. They normally tie 2 or 3 boats together to keep the groups in close proximity. During this storm, all the ropes had to be cut to keep the boats from crashing into each other. Life jackets were issued. I’m not sure about seating. We all had those plastic lawn chairs that I’m sure slid from one end to another, with tourists holding on for dear life. I know it was scary for them and I wondered if anyone had the boldness to stand and say, “Peace, be still!”

The Jesus Boat, found deep in the mud of the Sea of Galilee in 1986. The wood was dated to the 1st century AD, meaning it was a boat used during the time of Jesus. This boat was repaired using many different materials, making some believe it was a boat of significance. It is hard to tell in the picture, but it is actually 27 feet long and over 4 feet wide.

Then Comes a Ghost

For the disciples, it was crazy. A storm blows in. They’re far from shore. Jesus is somewhere on a mountain praying. It’s dark. And when things couldn’t be any more tremulous, they see a ghost.

Yep, life’s like that sometime. Have you ever looked at your “storm” and thought things couldn’t get any worse, and then a ghost appears. I guess it would take your mind off the storm for the moment. In today’s modern life, you are running late to yet another Teacher/Parent conference concerning son Johnny, when your 5 year old throws up in your new Skechers, and the family dog hasn’t come home since you let her out last night. The SUV is on empty and your husband has the gas card. Then the phone rings.

Your mammogram showed some suspicious spots. Can you come in for further testing? There’s a ghost.

The Bible says this terrified the disciples. They screamed in fear. I’ve never heard my husband scream in fear. (Unless it was on Space Mountain at Disney World.) These guys were afraid. Masculine pride left with the howling wind, and they screamed in terror at this ghost.

Jesus Gives Words of Comfort

“Take courage. It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

Jesus

Man, I need this on a bracelet, t-shirt, or something. “Be courageous. I am here. DON’T BE AFRAID.” Repeat.

Check out Peter, though. He says, “If it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.”

Why Not Just Ask for the Moon too, Peter?

Peter and the disciples are no doubt at risk of drowning. The waves are crashing, there is lightning, rain, wind, the works. MOST people would ask the Lord to rescue them.

“Still this storm, Lord!”

“Get us to shore!”

“Keep our boat strong!”

“Make 12 lifejackets splash into our boat!”

“Rescue ME!!!”

This is how I pray. “Get me out of this situation. I will lay out a 12 point plan that if You will follow, we will all safely arrive on shore…just a little waterlogged. Now, God, here’s what you need to do in order for us to survive. That is Your will……….Right?”

Peter, on the other hand, says “Lord, if that’s you, let me come play too!!” He’s not worried about surviving, or the boat, or the lesson learned, or the storm. He just wants to walk on water! His friend, Jesus, had done some really cool things, but this was epic. Fisherman Peter, had never seen a man walk on water. He was not about surviving a stormy night. He wanted to ride the waves with Jesus. And that was his prayer. “Call me out there too, Lord.” Call me right out in the middle of the storm, as long as I am with You!

Jesus’ one word answer is direct. “Come.” Isn’t that perfect? Just come.

Peter climbs out of the boat and walks on water. So cool. It dawns on me. This miracle really wasn’t necessary. This was just a little fun in the midst of the storm. If Peter hadn’t asked, it may have never happened, but Jesus was happy to oblige. The audacity to ask for a thrill during a trial.

We all know the rest of the story. Peter takes his eyes off Jesus and sees the wind. His faith wavers and he begins to sink. He cries out to the Lord and the Lord rescues him. The Lord has a question.

Why Did You Doubt?

Catch the Lord’s words. “You of little faith. Why did you doubt?” FOR REAL. Why, Peter? I’m dying to know what would have happened if Peter had not looked at the wind and lost faith. Would Jesus and Peter have danced and ran and slid on the seas? After a while, surely another disciple or two or twelve would have climbed out of the boat too. Can you see it? All these grown men running and playing on the water, just because Peter had the crazy faith to ask. What a fun story that would have been for Sunday school 2000 years later.

Instead, they climbed in the boat and the storm ceased. All were safe and sound. They then worshipped the Lord, their Rescuer. “Truly, you are the Son of God.” That’s beautiful too. He certainly deserved it. He saved their lives. But I have to wonder if the Lord would have enjoyed, even more, some miraculous fun with friends on the Sea. You can almost hear his disappointment, “Why did you doubt?”. It could have been so amazing.

George Bailey, in It’s a Wonderful Life, promises Mary he will lasso the moon and bring it right down to her. “You want the moon, Mary? Is that what you want?”

How many times have I needed some light in a dark place? I’ve begged for a candle or borrowed a flashlight when the Lord would have handed me the moon? I have worried and strained to fix my world. I have worn out pillows and sheets “sleeping” with my mind going full speed ahead. All the while there stood Jesus standing in a cloud of peace that passes understanding. I’ve been so exhausted that jokes weren’t funny and kids were annoying. I needed rest and a long, deep, belly laugh. There stands Jesus beckoning me to become like a child so I, too, can enter the Kingdom.

“Why did you doubt? We could have had so much fun.”

Isn’t it Wonderful? She Never Knew.

What “diagnosis” has been said to me that caused me to put the brakes on or walk away from a plan?…This is how we live above the “diagnosis”.

Mrs. Rose Marie Bentley

Rose Marie Bentley was one in 50 million and she never knew it. And that was probably the best thing that could have ever happened to her. You see, Mrs. Bentley was born with situs invertus. That’s a real condition that affects 1 in 22,000 births. It is where the internal organs are flipped backwards from their normal locations. Everyone of her organs was flipped except her heart.

She had an hysterectomy and no one mentioned it. They tried to remove her appendix, but couldn’t find it. Later, she had gallbladder surgery that resulted in a rather long scar because it was on the wrong side of her body. Yet, no one told her she had a life ending condition. Doctors report that only 1 in 50 million live to adulthood with situs invertus, most die in childhood due to cardiac ailments. But no one told Mrs. Bentley. You see, Mrs. Rose Marie Bentley lived with situs invertus to the wonderful age of 99. Her only reoccurring health complaint? Arthritis. She died of natural causes and no one would have known except she donated her body to a university science lab.

Mrs. Bentley was an avid swimmer, worked faithfully in her church, helped her husband run their feed store, and raised 5 kids. She never knew she risked a heart attack or death doing so. She just enjoyed life.

If Mrs. Bentley was born today

I couldn’t help but imagine how life would have been different if she had that diagnosis hanging over her happy head all of her days. Let’s just imagine if she had been born in today’s hospitals. They would have known before little Rose Marie was born that she had deformities. The doctor may have even advised abortion to end the suffering before her short life even began. Her parents would have been devastated from the beginning.

After birth, she would have been guarded from too much strain on her weakened heart. “No running, Rose Marie!” “Rose Marie, you are getting too excited. Settle down.” “You can’t do that, Rose Marie!” “The swim team? No way.” Life would have been affected by the diagnosis, even if not the disease.

Parents must be parents and watching over her would be required. Coaches and teachers would have to be cautious. Even classmates and friends would be told about the serious condition that Rose Marie suffered. Maybe Rose Marie would even be hesitant to find a husband and certainly not bring children into the world knowing she was living on unpromised time. Every birthday would seem bittersweet. “Hooray! She made another one!” But thinking, ‘I wonder if this will be her last…’

What a blessing it was for Rose Marie to never know the ticking time bomb that was her body. And that got me thinking…

Have I been diagnosed?

What has slowed down or stopped the plan for my life? What “diagnosis” has been said to me that caused me to put the brakes on or walk away from a plan? Is there something I should have done but a “diagnosis” convinced me otherwise? I took a little inventory.

That’s how I sang before the “diagnosis”. Mouth wide and sang from my toes!

When I was about 11 or 12, I was in the children’s choir at my church. I faithfully went to practice and enjoyed it. Most of the kids were from church families and had no choice as to their involvement, but I actually lived next door to the church and went by myself. It was great fun. Until one day.

My best friend and I got to practice early. When our director walked in, she asked my best friend if she would make it to the choir competition that we were practicing so hard to win. I will never forget her words. “I really want YOU to come. We really need YOUR voice.” Emphasis mine. There I stood, wondering if I was as invisible as I felt. If I could be seen, I knew my face was glowing red with embarrassment. Now I know this sounds awfully sensitive, but I was 11 or 12. I couldn’t process the situation any other way. She was telling me, in no uncertain terms, that my voice was not needed. In adult retrospect, she was just encouraging her strongest singer to show up. End of story. But in Suellyn’s mind, I cannot sing.

I’ve never joined a choir since. Sing alongs? Not so much. I sing in church but try to keep it below the guy in front of me. Karaoke? Hahaha! No. You see, the “diagnosis” changed my life.

On the flip side, no pun intended toward Mrs. Bentley, when I was in the third grade I won a writing contest. My letter was chosen to be sent to the Texas Parks and Wildlife program for free Texas posters. I realized two things that day. First, I could write better than 25 other 3rd graders. Second, writing could get you free stuff. Win. Win.

A winning diagnosis changed everything.

So for the rest of my life, when something needed to be written, guess who would give it a try? Poetry? Sure, why not. Need a story? Let me give it a whirl. To this day, writing is one of my greatest passions. You see, the “diagnosis” affected my life.

Rising Above the Diagnosis

So what about you? Is there a diagnosis in your life that hinders? Maybe you do have a physical condition that keeps you from participating. The words have been spoken. Or you gave something a try, but the feedback wasn’t what you wanted. The words, or lack of, made you want to put your hobby away and watch the world through the window. I have some advice. God has a word for you.

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.   2 Corinthians 10:4,5

This is how we live above the “diagnosis”. In this verse let’s think of the diagnosis as strongholds, arguments, and pretensions. They all come to crush the plans of God.

Strongholds would be just what it sounds like. Something that has a strong hold on you or your life. Sickness, failures, insecurities, addictions, sin, etc.

Arguments would be some of the human reasoning that we use to not take the path God has laid before us. It’s the excuses we use to avoid the hard stuff. It might look like, “I’m not the leader type.” Or, “Nobody in my family ever went to college. We’re not the college kind.” Maybe, “Somebody else can do it better than me.”

Finally, pretensions can be defined as lofty opinions or high imaginations that rise above the knowledge of God. These are the opinions that say, “I know God is asking me to teach that class or witness to my neighbor, but He doesn’t understand the situation.” These are the high imaginations that say my thoughts are higher than His thoughts.

So what do we do? “Take captive EVERY THOUGHT to make it obedient to Christ.” That’s it. Instead, I tend to take those thoughts and make them obedient to me. This is a mistake because I know the “diagnosis”. I’ve heard the comments, saw the red marks on math tests, remember the school yard rejections, and being picked last for teams. My reasoning and arguments will keep me from accomplishing what God has planned for me. As a matter of fact, the diagnosis will keep me from even trying.

No one has told the honey bee that its wings are not strong enough to fly.

But, if when those ideas came, I forgot the “diagnosis” and made sure my thoughts were obedient to the truth of God, I could live as Rose Marie, longer and fuller than should have been. I’m not saying that ignorance or forgetfulness makes all the limitations go away. I’m saying to take the thoughts and compare them to what God is saying to you.

Let’s say you’ve come from generations of broken marriages; but obedience to God means working and walking through a wonderful 60 year marriage. Maybe God has called you into business. The economy is weak. You have no experience. It’s risky. But God has called you. Take your “lofty opinions” and human argument and make it obedient to God. Live above the “diagnosis”. Everyone has witnessed the amazing violinist that has only one arm or the blind pianist. All of the reasonings and lofty opinions that said they would be happier trying something easier were taken captive and made obedient to the knowledge of what God was placing in their heart and they rose above the diagnosis.

Unfortunately, most of us have heard the diagnosis. We don’t get to live blissfully as Rose Marie did, never knowing our limitations. We’ve been told that we are not likely to do well. We are not cut out for such an awesome path. Don’t push yourself. Well, take those thoughts captive. Make it obedient to what God has said. What does God say? What is God asking you to do? Are the chances 1 in 50 million that you will succeed? Then go for it! Live like Rose Marie Bentley.

The View is So Much Better Up Here

It’s not that impressive until you know what happened. Golgatha, the rock of the cross.

When I want to pray and the words just aren’t there, I turn to the book of Psalms. Most of them are written by David and he had an honesty that makes me cringe sometimes. In seven verses he can cover hopelessness, encroaching death, and victory above all. Whatever I may be feeling, David has a verse for it.

This morning, I turned to Psalm 61. He starts out with a common beginning for him, “Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer.” I never really think to ask God to listen to me. I assume He is. Most of the time I just butt in with my half sentences and most needy requests and skip the formalities. Not David. He enters the throne room of God like a petitioner before the court, “Listen to me. Hear me!” Of course, these are psalms or songs, so a chorus of “hear me, O Lord” sung from the soul can put chills up your spine and make a worship service. It’s probably just me, but I can imagine David singing some of these with a little Texas twang, like his heart feels every note.

His words are not shallow. He prays by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and he asks for things I need.

From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Psalm 61:2

I’ve been there. I’ve gone to the end. I have done all that I know to do. I have worked, studied, prayed, pleaded, argued, given grace, fasted, wept, threatened, and acted like all is fine to the VERY END. I think the words are something like, “I can’t do it anymore, Lord. This is it. I’m at my end. I’ve circled this mountain long enough. I’m done.” Been there?He follows it with a faint heart, literally. As life is seeping out, he calls one more time. Now, I don’t know the circumstances here. David fought many physical, bloody, battles. He was chased by murderous kings, traitorous friends and even a lion and a bear, so his heart may have been beating his last, when he cried. He also had a rebellious son, an adulterous affair, a son die in childhood, and some real unforgiveness. These too will suck the life out of you. Either way, he is faint with a heart that is broken.

I’m singing the song right along with him, until now. “lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Wait, huh? I’m in the valley here. I need a doctor, a counselor, maybe an undertaker. I’m not asking for a high rock.

But it turns out, that’s what I need.

As we “climb” this rock, let me show you around.

Big Picture

The view from Mt. Carmel. I didn’t see any prophets of Baal that day. haha.

The first thing I notice up here is the Big Picture. I can see my life much clearer. I can see where I’ve come from and what’s ahead of me. I can see that hard trail was better than that deadly cliff on the other side. I notice the ruts I made trying to get somewhere that God never wanted me to go. I see the other travelers. That one, that I thought was throwing rocks, was just trying to get his footing in some loose gravel. God speed, Brother.

You know, the long, treacherous trail is really quite beautiful from this vantage point.

See My Enemies

Not just your fellow travelers are revealed, but you can see the enemy approaching as well. We all have an enemy, you know? On flat ground, I rarely see him coming. I will be doing my life, walking my path, and he strikes – a fiery dart that spins me around until I begin to lose my footing. From up here, I see him. Forget him sneaking up hill. Not only is his cover removed, but his weapons are weaker. Ever tried shooting an arrow straight up? Gravity bites. But standing on this rock, my weapons are mighty and my target is clear and I’m firing downward. From the beginning, Genesis 3, it was said that the devil would strike Christ’s heel and Christ would crush his head. That’s easy to see from this heighth.

Builds My Faith

The Bible speaks of mountain moving faith, but from up here, it seems there might be faith building mountains. When I stand upon the rock that is higher than I, faith grows. That problem that loomed overhead, is not so intimidating from here. That’s why I love the mountains. Two years ago, my husband and I visited Colorado and drove thru the Rockies. We pulled over often and tried to take it all in. You look out for miles and know that the God who made those giant ROCKS, can do whatever He wants to. Uh, let me think…. Nope, there is NOTHING He can’t do!

Train ride through the Rockies. One of the most beautiful rides ever.

Keeps Me Clean

Just like the noise pollution, there is sin pollution down there. Standing on this rock, the Lord keeps me clean. There’s so much mud being flung down there. The paths are full of grime and sludge. Take your eyes off Jesus for a minute, and you’ll step knee deep into mire. Depression, addiction, and despair will wrap around you like briers. Up here, He keeps me spotless from the world.

Hear God’s Voice

Alaskan mountains stunned my sense of hearing…with their silence.

You’ll notice as you climb, that the noises of this world grow quieter and quieter. There’s a lot of word pollution on street level. Climb a little more and you can hear your own breath. Sure, you might be breathing a little harder by now. But listen, when you go to the rock that is higher than yourself, you will begin to hear Our Father and nothing else. One thing I have learned in life is that a word from Him is all I need. Rarely does He shout. He doesn’t have to up here. Just listen.

That’s it. Like I said, David never sang a shallow song. Every word inspired by God, he prayed the words I needed today. “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Show me that view that puts life in perspective. David knew that eye level isn’t the whole truth. There is a Rock that sees it all.

Where is that Rock, you ask? It’s Jesus. He is that spiritual Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4). Find Him. His view is greater. His strength is immovable. His voice is discernible. He will wash and protect you. He is the Rock that is higher.

"Trust in the Lord forever, for the LORD, the LORD Himself, is the ROCK eternal."  Isaiah 26:4

To All the Single Girls

Here’s the thing. I’m not single. Haven’t been for 32 years. BUT I taught teenagers at church for 16 years and I have seen them grow older and navigate the waters of singledom. Some of them drowned. Others floated aimlessly. A few still sit on the shore and wait for the fish to jump out of the water and sweep them off their sandy feet. Then there were the very few that swam among the sharks, octopi, and bottom feeders and found their “Nemo”.

So, let me see if I can help. Very simply, you are looking for a front seat guy. Let me explain.

The back seat doesn’t offer this view.

I’ve seen a lot of single girls looking for that fun guy who hangs out in the backseat. They find him just so irresistible. I mean girls just wanna have fun, right? And he is Mr. Fun.

Then there is Mr. Front Seat. He’s not so free and unrestricted. He’s got a steering wheel keeping him snug. There are things to do and places to go. He’s in the driver’s seat and that is what he is doing.

Let’s take a closer look.

Where are they going?

The first obvious distinction is where they are going. Front Seat Fellow is going somewhere. He has a plan, a goal, a destination. He’s not letting anyone determine his arrival or route or parking spot. He takes responsibility for his life and knows that all the decisions required to drive will get him where he is going. Front Seat has a plan for life.

Back Seat Boy is just along for the ride. He’s going wherever the crowd is going. He has no plans, no goals, or desired destination. He just enjoys the scenery and hopes against hope that he ends up somewhere “cool”.

Do They Use Directions?

Guys have earned the reputation for driving aimlessly for hours to avoid stopping and asking for directions. My husband will not do that because he knows that he can stop and his shameless wife will go in and ask exactly what town we are presently in. Either way, Front Seat Fellow will have a map, GPS, or navigator before striking out toward their destination. Life requires directions, from beginning to end. The Bible truly is that life map. Walk this way. Avoid this pitfall. Travel lightly here. Front Seat Fellow reads “the map” everyday to make sure they and their riders don’t get lost.

Back Seat Boy poo poos maps, directions, even GPS. Who needs all those restrictions? They know what’s fun and free and that’s their compass. As a matter of fact, they’re riding the backseat of life and rarely even notice the road.

Rules and Restrictions

Speaking of restrictions, Front Seat Fellow, knows the rules. He knows that traffic tickets raise insurance premiums, burning rubber means buying tires, and speeding down the highway means stopping for gas at the next exit. He knows that the choices today come as bills tomorrow. He knows safety is thinking about every rider in the car. He doesn’t consider risking your life, a thrill. Again, he has places to go and he has to live to get there.

Back Seat Boy doesn’t have the wheel, isn’t buying the gas or tires, and considers your life worth a risky ride. He will yell from the back to speed up, take the jump, or squeal some tires. Why not? He hasn’t paid for them and isn’t heading anywhere special. Life’s rules are to be broken and safety is for those who have something to live for.

Hunting for Change in the Back Seat

Then there is the money. There are more divorces over money differences than any other reason. So let’s look at Front Seat and Back Seat wallets.

Front Seat counts the cost. The Bible tells us the smart builder considers the cost before building his house. The smart soldier considers the cost before going to war. Mr. Front Seat will count the cost for his journey. He makes provision for gas, food, and fun. He also plans for the unplanned. Flat tires, brake jobs, and torn windshield wipers are all part of the trip. Life, too, has ups and downs financially and Mr. Front Seat is constantly aware of his present and future needs. He’s not hoping to find a $20 on the way into McDonald’s. He put $200 away last week to enjoy dinners out, even in retirement.

Back Seat Boy had $20 in his pocket until that first stop on the journey. He’s always wanted one of those giant cigarette lighters, so he bought two. Now he is all talk about when his big windfall comes. In the mean time, can you spot him a ten?

Entertainment Gets out of the Car

For the Back Seat Boy, the most important entertainment takes place in the back seat. You know what I mean. It’s how far, how fast, and how daring can those “backseat activities” be. He’s not interested in the great world outside or showing you some of the beauties of your shared community. He will satisfy himself. You will only be part of the entertainment.

Front Seat Fellow wants to enrich your life. “You’ve never eaten at Louie’s? Never seen the ocean? Gone to the top of the monument?” “Then we’re going!”

Front Seat Fellow wants to get out of the car. He will seek to find entertainment that builds relationships by shared experiences. He wants to do with life with you, not just “do you”. Yes, those urges are there, but he will recognize that you are a daughter of God and he will not be found guilty of anything crossing that line.

Front Seat Fun

And finally, Front Seat Fellow will stay awake and alert, offer conversation, and add to the pleasure of the ride. He points out things on the roads of life and enjoys the discussion as much as the drive. He listens too. He knows you have observations, destinations, and navigations to offer as well. You’re in this front seat together.

Back Seat Boy? Well, he is reclining in the back with earbuds and his phone. He didn’t hear the last 3 comments you made because he was too busy with his giant cigarette lighter. As a matter of fact, the last time you looked back, he had a foot sticking out the back window, lighter had fallen to the floorboard, and our back seat boy has fallen asleep.

You’ve all read this scripture:

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.  For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?  Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?  2 Corinthians 6:14
Works best if they are going the same direction.

It’s the truth. We don’t have many oxen treading grain anymore, but one day you will yoke yourself to a man. If he is not going where you are going (church, heaven, a life of peace), not traveling at the same speed (You read your Bible and pray every day. He does on occasion.), and not enjoying the yoke you share (not willing to commit and share the load), then you are unequally yoked.

Seek the Lord and ask Him to find your Front Seat Fellow. He’s the one that will bear the yoke with you. He will follow the Lord’s directions. He will wear the yoke in such a way that you will find it lighter. There will be other oxen frolicking around, but pay no mind, you are yoked to your Front Seat Fellow.

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